Its been 25 years since the original lineup of King Kobra has recorded an album together. 2011 marks the return of King Kobra, minus former lead singer Mark Free. Mark/Marcie declined an invitation from the band to do a re-union record, so they got the next best thing, veteran rock vocalist Paul Shortino. If there was anyone that could replace Free, and totally pull it off, it would have to be Shortino. I have to say, when Paul mentioned it on our show, months ago, I was totally blown away and geeked beyond belief. This re-union has been a long time coming, and though some thought this day would never come, it has finally arrived. The boys re-convened months ago to record the first KK record in 10 years, and the finished product is simply called King Kobra.
The CD is comprised of some new tunes as well as some left overs from back in the day. I think the split is probably about 50/50, but that is my guess. The overall vibe of the record is classic KK. Some of the songs on this disk definitely have an old school vibe, which the boys pull it off without a hitch. The other songs incorporate more of a blues vibe, and I think that is highly attributed to the addition of Shortino. Check out the bluesy track, We Got a Fever, to get a taste of the nasty blues rock the Kobra is dishing up. You'll need a couple napkins to clean up after this one.
Another interesting element to this record is the influence Paul brings to the table. Not sure how the writing process worked for this record, but you can hear Paul's influence, especially on the track Turn Up the Good Times, which sounds similar to something Paul did with Quiet Riot, back in the day. Definitely a good thing. Never fear though, because the boys have come up with some new KK classics like the emotional Live Forever, which brings back the signature guitar harmonies from David Michael Phillips and Mick Sweda. Sweet! A very solid return from a band that should have been bigger than they ever got. Go get this one.
Bottom Line: This is the record that should have come out after Ready to Strike, because the vibes are similar. Solid melodic hard rock from a veteran band. Great catchy tunes that will keep you coming back for more.
Standout Tracks: Live Forever, Midnight Woman, Tear Down the Walls and We Got a Fever.
-Ragman is wondering if the boys are looking for their peroxide...